Major World Religions Animism

About the major world religion Animism, some of the varieties, beliefs and meanings behind the religious tradition.

Major World Religions

ANIMISM

Derived from the Latin word animus, meaning "spirit," Animism is the belief that all beings, objects, and natural phenomena have souls. Animism is considered by many to be the original religion and is still widespread today, particularly in Africa, South America, and parts of Asia. Indeed, traces of Animism can be found in many of the "advanced" religions of the modern world.

Beliefs and forms of worship vary widely from place to place and tribe to tribe.